What is the best way to supply my technicians?

As an installation company, you must carry out installations and maintenance daily. Of course, every mechanic needs certain parts and materials for every job. Two standard methods of supplying your mechanics’ company vans are delivery from the central warehouse or overnight delivery to the mechanics’ car. But which method is the most effective? We are happy to explain it to you.

How does central warehouse replenishment work for my technicians?

Many installation companies have used a central warehouse for years to collect and deliver all the necessary parts and materials for orders. With this method, the technician first visits the central warehouse before each job or before the start of the day to pick up all the necessary parts and materials. This method has several advantages and disadvantages.

The benefits of central warehouse replenishment

• Efficient inventory management
  With all parts and materials stored and managed in one location, it’s easier to keep track of inventory levels and update them when required.
• Cost savings
  A central warehouse allows you to buy in bulk, often resulting in better product prices, which leads to long-term cost savings.
• Flexibility
  A central warehouse generally allows you to respond quickly to urgent jobs and requests, as parts are almost always quickly and easily accessible.

The disadvantages of central warehouse replenishment

• Delays in processing orders
  If you use a central warehouse, the delivery time between the order and delivery may be slightly delayed. Sometimes, a technician has to wait for a delivery when carrying out a repair, which can reduce productivity.
• High transport and storage costs
  A disadvantage of a central warehouse is that storage and transporting parts are often expensive because the distances become more excellent. In some cases, you may need a third-party transport company.
• Limited presence of parts
  If you use a central warehouse, delays can still happen if parts are not in stock. This can cause longer waiting times for technicians.

How does night delivery work in my mechanics’ company buses?

Another way to supply your technicians is by using night deliveries in company buses. Especially in recent years, this method has become increasingly popular among installation companies. In general, this method saves time and money, but this replenishment method also has both advantages and disadvantages.

The advantages of night delivery in the company bus

• Time savings
  If you opt for night deliveries, the necessary parts and materials will be delivered to your technician’s company van on time and in a precise manner. Everything is ready as soon as your mechanic’s working day starts. This allows technicians to do their work all day without having to spend time in between collecting the necessary parts.
• Cost savings
  As an installation company, you often save on transport costs with nightly deliveries. This is because overnight transport is generally cheaper.
• Increase in productivity
  Thanks to night deliveries of parts and materials, your technicians can work faster and more effectively, increasing their productivity. With this method, technicians generally experience fewer delays when waiting for necessary parts.

The disadvantages of night delivery in the company bus

• Limited flexibility
  Technicians must place orders accurately if you use night deliveries. There is virtually no flexibility about the timing and content of the parts supplied. If one of your technicians suddenly has to perform a new, extensive repair during the day, the technician may not have the right parts. The technician must order parts for the next day, or the central warehouse must be asked to provide the necessary parts and materials.
• Limited presence of parts
  If your mechanic does not notice in time that parts in his van are running out, the missing part can only be delivered on the next delivery.
• Potential security risks
  Deliveries of parts and materials may occur during unusual times, potentially posing safety risks.

Which sourcing method is best for my installation company?

We have just shown you the advantages and disadvantages of each method and several benefits. Logically, you are now wondering what is the best method for your installation company. It is essential to realize that every installation company is different; therefore, there is never one method that works best for every installation company. Which method works best for you? The experts at Bluace are happy to take a look and give you appropriate advice.